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Golf is a game of gambling. Whether you like to make bets or not, every time you take a swing, you are gambling with the results. Like betting, golf has only so many variables that you can control. Once the dice are rolled or the swing is swung, we can only watch and wait for the results.
Playing a round of golf can be difficult in of itself. If you're an experienced player, choose your games wisely to maximize competition. If you're a casual weekend hacker then choose the games that will increase round enjoyment. Some of these games could be closest to the pin on par threes, Sandies (up and down from bunkers) or even snake (avoiding three putts.)
In this article we will talk about side games for golfers of all levels. We will walk you through the best games to play if your a scratch and the best ones to play when you're a 20 handicap. Either way, they maximize enjoyment on the course and add competition for more fun and excitement.
Elevate Round Enjoyment and Reduce Frustration with Golf Betting Games
Some golfers find the sport long and frustrating but when paired with the right group of golfers, and a side game, it becomes way more interactive. Games are one of the best ways to keep golf more competitive. Spice up a round by adding several ongoing golf betting games.
Here are 5 of our favorite side games to play golfing:
1. Snake-
Simply put, a snake is a three putt. If you three putt you hold the snake until the next person three putts. Whoever at the end of the round is holding the snake loses.
2. Bingo Bango Bongo-
Bingo Bango Bongo is a points-based betting game where scoring well doesn’t necessarily win you the match. Once again this side bet is based on what happens on the green.
On each hole, points are awarded for three separate achievements and play must be in turn:
The first point is given to the player who gets on the green first. (Bingo)
The second is awarded to the player who is closest to the pin once all the balls are on the green. (Bango)
and the third point is given to the player who holes out first. (Bongo)
The goal, as you can probably guess, is to earn the most points during the round. There are 54 points up for grabs so just be mindful when setting the betting stake.
3. Zoo
This great and somewhat complicated golf side bet has many names but as it is based on animals, we will call it Zoo. The snake is incorporated into this game along with the following:
Woodpeckers. Whenever a ball hits a tree with a definitive sound heard by the group.
Camels. Every time you land in a bunker.
Dolphins. Every time a ball goes into water.
Rhinos. Every time a ball is lost (not in water) or goes Out of Bounds.
So with Snake outlined above, there are 5 running bets in total and you want to avoid holding any of these animals come to the end of the round. Once again the bet increases throughout every time a player is penalized.
4. Metoo
This isn’t exactly a golf side bet as such but is a great add-on and will particularly help the higher handicap golfer. Players can ditch a less-than-desirable shot and move their ball to where the best ball is positioned with no penalty.
This is permitted on any type of shot except for putts. You lose a drive and somebody bombs it down the fairway – take a Metoo and now you're playing your second shot from this drive. An opponent stiffs an iron shot on a par 3, then take a Metoo to match this shot.
You decide how many are allowed before the round; a good way to go is varying the amount according to the level of the golfers:
1 x Metoo for single figure handicap (0-9)
2 x Metoo, for mid-handicap (10-19)
3 x Metoo, for higher handicap (20+)
5. Fairways and Greens
Like Bingo, Bango, Bongo the payout to the winner could be made simpler with the runner-up paying $5, the third $10, and the fourth $15 as an example.
Points are awarded as follows:
One point to any player that hits a fairway
One point to any player that hits a green in regulation (including their shot allowance)
And finally one to every player that hits a green on a par 3
Side note- Remember to establish all rules before playing any games. That means all money or bets being taken need to be announced or written on the scorecard while playing.
Fun and Inclusive Game Suggestions for All Age Groups: Exciting Money Games for Adults and Creative On-Course Games for Kids
If you're looking just to start out and want something fun and exciting to play with your friends I would start with “snake” and “fairways and greens.” Money games don't always need to be the case, especially with new golfers. New golfers can try out other options that won’t leave them frustrated and annoyed with golf.
For examples, Maybe Par: The Game offers new ways to play by challenging you to swing differently resulting in more laughter and a better experience on the golf course. Whether you're a season pro or a high handicapper, golf has options for everyone. The best way to enjoy golf is by playing it differently.
Remember to place bets before the rounds and establish the rules. Once the rules are set, let the games begin!
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